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Aug 31, 2017

How to Host a Simple Wine and Cheese Party

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Wine & Cheese is a tried and true combo and always what we gravitate towards when entertaining. So today, we’re excited to host a special guest to show us how she features these favorite elements. Jen, from Freckles on Filmore, is here and sharing how to host a simple wine and cheese party. Scroll down for her best tips and tricks for pulling off the perfect evening.

Jen says, Inspired by the sight of fresh blooms, green grass and bright skies, this time of year is the perfect time for entertaining. With everything being full of life, we were motivated to plan an intimate Sonoma inspired grown-up gathering. And it’s all for you, wine and cheese lovers ;). Read on for 5 simple tips you can consider when hosting an easy going time with friends or family.

Before you have a mini panic attack… remember to keep it simple. We’ve broken it down into four easy to follow components a hostess with the mostest should have on her radar:

1. Location – Find a space with tabletops. If you really want to get in theme and are local to Wine Country/have the budget you can always rent a space via AirBnB or peerspace for a of couple hours (which is exactly what we did). It’s a great solution for parties, showers or birthday gatherings.

Otherwise you can turn any space into a sommelier’s dream. We fell in love with our location at first sight. Tucked away in Sonoma, this farmhouse styled home sits on 4.5 acres and was the perfect location for a wine and cheese get together. With bright white walls and a rustic minimalist style, it’s every girl’s dream home. Plus, its free spirit makes you want to slip off your shoes and walk around in the grass. It is the perfect location for any occasion, big or small, from an intimate gathering like ours, or even a wedding celebration.

2. Table Decor – Don’t over complicate it! Plan what to pack ahead of time and keep it simple. A simple, yet beautiful table setting can elevate the overall aesthetic even if the location doesn’t. To bring our wine and cheese party to life, we designed small cheese cards courtesy of Paper Source, used a simple table cloth with a pop of color and wood serving trays thanks to The Little Market, and silver planter centerpieces from West Elm. And it would be no party at all without the Wine Glasses.

3. Wines – I’m having a fruit salad for dinner. Well, it’s mostly grapes. OK, it’s all grapes. Fermented grapes. I’M HAVING WINE FOR DINNER. When it comes to a party, especially, a tasting variety is obviously in order. We’d recommend dabbling in the whole spectrum. Dark red to light Rosé. This gives you the opportunity to pair different cheeses, chocolates and pairings….

4. Cheese Plate – Putting together a “pretty” cheese plate requires a couple of pointers. First, make sure you have variety of cheeses in your selection. We went with blue cheese, cheddar, goat brie, Monterrey Jack and gouda. Next, make sure to mix different textures (i.e., olives, almonds and cured meats). Finally, add a variety of pairing sides (i.e., pita bread, crackers or slices of bread & some gluten free options just in case!)

Don’t forget to have fun and relax – you’ve done all the hard work already! Once everyone has arrived treat yourself with a glass of vino and enjoy the good company and hor’dourves.